Bsun Akashi vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch with the HMX EMO linear switch, it's important to note the unique features of each. The Bsun Akashi is renowned for its smooth UPE stem and distinctive POM top and nylon bottom housing combo, which contributes to a bright, crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the HMX EMO switch offers a lively, clacky feel with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force and exceptional factory lubrication for a smooth typing experience. While the Akashi is praised for its resonant keystrokes, the EMO provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and HMX EMO switches both offer a unique combination of housing materials to enhance the sound profile of typing. The Akashi features a POM top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound, while the EMO utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of bottom housing, both switches opt for nylon for a fuller and deeper sound profile. While the top housings differ in material, the bottom housings provide a consistent experience across both switches, offering a similar sound profile due to the use of nylon.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the EMO switch's top housing allows for translucency, making it a great choice for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. This adds a visual element to the switch that differs from the more traditional POM top housing of the Akashi. However, both switches still offer the classic sound profile associated with nylon bottom housings, creating a more rounded and deeper sound when typing. Overall, the choice between the Akashi and EMO switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and visual aesthetics.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it becomes clear that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that even though the Akashi and EMO switches may have different top housing materials for varying sound profiles, the nylon bottom housing provides a consistent, deep, and full sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and feel while typing.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams. Both switches fall into the lighter category, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the EMO to be preferable. However, for individuals who prioritize a lighter touch, the Akashi would be the better choice. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with slightly varying levels of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, slightly longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the market. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Akashi a favorable choice in this regard. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Akashi to feel too abrupt, in which case the slightly longer travel distance of the EMO may be more appealing for those seeking a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the BSUN Akashi linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound profile, providing a bright and crisp bottom-out with a deep acoustic richness due to the unique UPE stem and hybrid housing design. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch does not have a specific sound descriptor mentioned. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
Moving on to feel, the BSUN Akashi linear switch is described as offering a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press typing experience. The smooth and buttery sensation of a creamy switch, combined with the reduced friction and effortless key travel of a polished switch, along with the responsiveness of a snappy and easy-to-press switch, provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, there is no specific feel descriptor mentioned for the HMX EMO linear switch.
Overall, comparing the subjective qualities of the BSUN Akashi linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi switch offers a more detailed description in terms of sound and feel. Both switches aim to provide a smooth and satisfying typing experience, but the Akashi stands out with its unique combination of tactile feedback and sound profile. If a user is looking for a switch that offers a balance of tactile feedback, satisfying sound, and smooth key feel, the BSUN Akashi linear switch would be a great choice. However, if the user prefers a feather-light bottom-out force without specific sound preferences, the HMX EMO linear switch may also be a suitable option. Ultimately, the best switch choice will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch, consider the bottom out force and the unique characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams and enjoy a resonant typing experience with a bright, crisp bottom-out sound, the Akashi may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 46 grams and value a lively, clacky feel with exceptional factory-lubed smoothness, the EMO switch might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct advantages, so considering your typing style and sound preference will help you make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
